-Ntadi- figure c. 19th century

sculpture

3d sculpting

natural shape and form

stone

sculpture

sculptural image

unrealistic statue

sculpting

sculpture

charcoal

graphite

statue

This 19th century Kongo sculpture, "Ntadi- figure," depicts a seated figure wearing a crown. The figure's pose, with one hand resting on the chin and the other on the hip, suggests a sense of contemplation or authority. Carved from stone and standing on a rectangular base, the figure displays a stylized and geometric style typical of Kongo art. The piece is a powerful example of the artistry and cultural traditions of the Kongo people.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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The stone used for this sculpture is relatively soft, so the artist could carve it almost as easily as wood. The figure was placed outside to demarcate the land of a clan, embellish the grave of a chief, and celebrate the legacy of the past. It represents a chief, recognizable by his hat, which once displayed four leopard claws (now missing), and his pensive pose—known as fumani, or “thinker of sad things”—which symbolizes wisdom, thoughtfulness, and authority.